Pacific Sand Crab [Phimochirus californiensis]
Description
The Pacific Sand Crab is a small crustacean that averages about 1.5 cm in length. They have an oval shape and a pale yellow to tan color. They are distinguished by their flattened body which is adapted for burrowing in sand. These crabs inhabit sandy beaches along the Pacific coast of North America, from Alaska to Baja California. They are filter feeders, mainly consuming plankton and organic debris.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Arthropods
Arthropoda
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Crustaceans
Malacostraca
|
| Order |
Decapods
Decapoda
|
| Family |
Hermit Crabs
Paguridae
|
| Genus |
Phimochirus
Phimochirus
|